Sarracenia

Scientific Name: 
Sarracenia
Origin: 
Most species occur only in the southeastern United States
Family: 
Sarraceniaceae

Pitcher plants are aptly named because their leaves are shaped like tall, cone-shaped pitchers that hold fluid. Insects, like bees, butterflies and ants are attracted to the top of the trap because of its bright red color and sweet smell. 

As an insect begins to investigate the tempting treat, it loses its footing because of the slippery sides and because of downward pointing hairs lining the inside of the plant. This also prevents the bugs from crawling out of the pitcher once captured. The insect falls down into the pitcher that is filled with digestive fluids like the saliva in your mouth. The soft parts of the insect are digested first leaving behind the skeleton.

  • Find us on Facebook

    Interact with other people who share your love for the Garden!

  • Follow us on Twitter
    • RT @TurnUpYourCity: 10th Annual #ConcertsInTheGarden at @AtlBotanical http://t.co/s4ho74lS Includes @kebmomusic & @aaronneville 8/11 ...
      2 days 10 hours ago
  • Watch us on YouTube

    Watch the Garden in action!